Imbolc: Traditional Celebrations for a Modern Time

Author: Morgan

This holiday is called many names including Imbolc, Oímealg, Lá Fhéile Bríde, Laa’l Breeshey, and Gwyl Mair Dechrau’r Gwanwyn and was originally celebrated when the ewes first began to lactate. Some older sources mention Imbolc being celebrated on February 13th, although now the date is fixed on February 2nd. This holiday is a celebration of the loosening of winters hold on the land and the first signs of spring’s immanent arrival. Three main types of ceremonies could be undertaken – purification with water, blessing with fire, and consecration of talismans or charms. In addition, the main ritual theme centered on inviting the goddess Brighid into the home, either in effigy or in the form of a person acting the part.

The fire represents the growing light of the sun. Candles are lit to celebrate the increased daylight, and often candles were blessed for use in the year to come; this connection to candles offers another alternate name for the holiday, Candlemas. In my personal practice I light special “sun” candles, and bless my candleholders for the year to come.

Ritual washing was done to cleanse and prepare the people for the agricultural work of the coming seasons. Water was blessed and then used to ceremonially wash the head, hands, and feet. Each year when I do this, I dip my fingers in the blessed water and run them over the body parts in question, asking that I be cleansed of winter’s cold and filled with summer’s warmth to work towards a new season. Then I pour the remaining water out onto the earth thanking Brighid for her blessing.

The main charms and talismans of Imbolc are related to Brighid. First there is the Brighid’s cross, a woven sun wheel shape which represented the cycle of the year and the four main holy days, according to the book Apple Branch. On Imbolc, you can weave new Brighid’s crosses, or bless ones you already have, although it may be better to burn the old and weave new each year when possible. A Brighid’s cross is protective and healing to have in the home.

A second talisman is the brídeóg, or “little Brighid” a small cloth or straw doll wearing white clothes which is an effigy of the goddess. In some cases, the brídeóg would be made from straw saved from the previous Lughnasadh. This doll played a role in ritual after being brought outside, usually carried by the eldest daughter, then invited to enter the home where it was led with all ceremony to a specially prepared little bed. The doll was left in the bed over night and its presence was believed to bless all those in the household.

Another talisman connected to Imbolc is Brigid’s mantle, or an brat Bríd, a length of cloth left out on the window sill over the course of the holy day and night. It is believed that this cloth absorbs the energy of the goddess during the ritual, and can be used for healing and protection throughout the year. This talisman would be kept and recharged every year, attaining full power after seven years.

The ritual for Brighid on Imbolc centers on inviting the goddess in and offering her hospitality. In some cases a woman was chosen to play the part of the goddess, in other cases the brídeóg was used. The door would be opened to her and she would loudly be invited in, shown to her “bed” and offered specially baked bread. Candles would be lit at the windows and next to her “bed”, songs would be sung and prayers said calling on Brighid to bless all present in the coming seasons, and grant health and protection to the household.

A small broom or white wand would be placed next to the “bed”, and the ashes from the fire would be smoothed down in the hopes that the morning would reveal the marks of the wand, or better yet, the footprints of the goddess herself, either of which would be a sign of blessing. Placing the doll in her bed at night would be followed by a large family meal.

In Scotland a hundred years ago when entire communities still celebrated Imbolc in the old way, a sheaf of corn would be dressed as Brighid and taken from house to house by the young girls. The girls would carry the doll from home to home where the “goddess” would be greeted and offered food and gifts. After visiting each home, the girls would return to the house they started from where a party would be held with music, dancing, and feasting until dawn; all the leftover food would be handed out to the poor the next day.

Other rituals involve blessing the forge fires for blacksmiths and Otherworld divinations. In some Scottish mythologies, it is believed that Brighid is held by the Cailleach Bhur during the winter months but escapes, or is rescued by her brother Aonghus mac óg, on Imbolc. In others, it is said the Cailleach drinks from a hidden spring and transforms into Brighid on this day.

For modern people seeking to celebrate Imbolc in a traditional way, there are many options. Rituals can be adapted to feature the brídeóg. If you celebrate in a group, you could have one person wait outside with the doll while the other members prepare her bed, and then the group leader could go to the doorway and invite the goddess in. This could even be modified for use in an urban setting with the brídeóg “waiting” out in a hallway or separate room to be invited in.

Once invited in the goddess can be offered food and gifts as was done in Scotland and stories about Brighid from mythology could be told. Water can be used for purification; blessing with fire or of candles can be done, as well as making and consecrating the charms associated with Brighid. After ritual, the doll could be left in the bed while the group celebrates with a party; to keep the spirit of the way this was done for a modern time all members should bring food to donate to a local food pantry. A solitary celebration could still include inviting the goddess in, placing the brídeóg in her bed, making offerings to her, and a private celebration and food donations.

Imbolc is a powerful holy day with many beautiful traditions. By understanding how this day was celebrated in the past, we can find ways to incorporate those methods into modern practice and preserve the traditions that have surrounded Brighid’s day for so many generations.

_________________________________

Footnotes:
Carmichael, A. (1900) . Carmina Gadelica. Floris books. ISBN-10 0-86315-520-0
Evert Hopman, E. (1995) . A Druid’s Herbal of the Sacred Earth Year. Destiny Books ISBN 0-89281-501-9
Kondrariev. K. (1998) . The Apple Branch: A Path to Celtic Ritual. Citadel Press ISBN 0-8065-2502-9
McNeill, F. (1959) . The Silver Bough, volume 2. McLellan and Co.

Back to Basics: Imbolc

Author: Robin Fennelly

Imbolc is here! The Witch’s Wheel has turned another notch and we welcome the opportunity to turn the heat up, step into the warmth of home and hearth and connect more deeply to those growing fires that are preparing the way for the seeding of Spring’s growth at the next turn.

This year I have decided to go back to the basics in my series of writings for the Sabbats of the Great Wheel. Sometimes the most powerful revelations can be found in the joy of seeing the celebratory act in its unembellished form. I will also be including a simple ritual for each that may be celebrated as a Solitary or added to as a group celebration.

Imbolc is a Fire festival and aligned agriculturally with the first stirrings of the hope of growing light, slowly warming weather and fields that would at mid-summer’s point be lush with flower, fruit and animal life. Imbolc celebrates the new life that has yet to push through the frost-covered ground, yet remains as a strong image of the quickening potential. We revel in the excitement of spying a single shoot of greenery and the first signs of Spring even though snow may still cover the ground. The vitality we feel as the cold winds blow are sure signs that we are alive and vibrant. And this life and vibrancy holds the promise of returning to the warmth of home and interaction with friends and family.

At the time of Imbolc we celebrate the calving season as new life emerges from mother’s womb. Milk flows freely for those young animals that will provide sustenance in the coming months ahead and we anticipate the healing that this new life will bring to the land as hungry mouths graze on lush green fields that will emerge in the months ahead. We celebrate with cheese, and milk and products that contain this protein rich elixir.

We celebrate the gaining strength of the Goddess having given birth at the Solstice to the child of Light and now bathed in the fires of revitalization seen as she begins the transition into the Maiden of Ostara. This is the affirmation of the continued cycle of life and the transformative nature of Deity as source of inspiration for their much love children of the earth in all of our forms.

The Goddess Brighid is often honored at this Sabbat. Brighid, the Goddess of the Triple Flame is invoked as a patroness of Creativity, Mistress of the Purifying Forge and the Healing Mother. She is the simple of the accumulated Hope and Promise that the next few weeks will bring. These are but a few of the gifts attributed to Brighid and at this time of the year, her energies are most aptly felt as the Fires required as both light and heat that mirror the strengthening of the sun’s light that will quicken the seeding of the earth and the sustaining of the life that inhabits it.

And, so at this time of Imbolc I offer a ritual that calls upon the energy of the Goddess, Brighid and the space for communion with her eternal flames. The following is a very simple ritual that empowers candles to be used throughout the year as needed. The gifts of Brighid are called into a large pillar and can be used as a tool of contemplative connection with the Goddess in all of her aspects. The three additional pillars are attuned to her gifts of Creativity, Healing and Purification. These can be lit and used in future ritual and meditation when you wish to bolster or catalyze endeavors making use of these supports.

Note: I could have given you more information about Brighid, but that is part of the basic approach and the beauty of entering into communion with Deity open to the possibilities of what will be revealed.

The Flames of the Goddess

You will need:
1 Tall White Pillar candle and holder
3 Smaller White Pillars and holders for each
White cloth to place on whatever surface you have chosen and your altar space

The color White is the symbol of purity, clarity and the brilliance of all colors lit from within.

Arrange the candles on a flat surface (altar space) on top of the white cloth. Place the tall pillar candle behind a row of the 3/smaller pillars placed in front. Leave a small 3” of space between each of the three

Create Sacred Space in accord with your spiritual path and when your space is readied, come to stand before your altar set with the candles. Pick up the Large Pillar and hold it at your heart center.

Breathe deeply and acknowledge the heat that flows in through nostril and mouth and fills your lungs. Take another deep breath, expanding on this feeling of fullness, light and warmth. Take a third deep breath, and as you exhale offer the intention of this inner heat, the stoked fires within and release its energy into the white candle of the Goddess. This is your breath of inspiration that will invoke the Goddess Brighid. Continue to hold the candle and open to the sensation of this energy filling and connecting to it. Envision this candle as the conduit between Brighid’s Fires and the space of the Goddess and her flames within.

Approach your altar, replace the candle on its holder and invoke the Goddess Brighid:

I invoke Brighid, Goddess of the Triple Flame
She whose flame burns brightest in the work of creation.

I invoke Brighid, mistress of the Forge and transformer
Who purifies and prepares what seeks remaking.

I invoke Brighid, healer and holder of the inner light
That burns away discomfort and dis-ease.

I invoke Brighid, the Fiery Arrow, warrior and patroness
Who brings Will to action and whose sword of Truth
Pierces the veil of illusion.

I invoke Brighid to be with me in this rite of Imbolc
As I seek the flames of creativity, truth and healing.

Take a deep breath, and when you sense the energy of the Goddess is present, make statement: Hail and Welcome!

Turn your focus towards the Large White Pillar. And, as you light it make declaration:

May this candle serve as the life giving flame of Brighid.
May this candle serve as the embodiment of the Goddess in this rite.
May the flame rise in honor of the Fiery One as it lights the way
For the work of this Sabbat of Imbolc.

Spend some time envisioning the gifts of the Goddess flowing in and through this candle. Gaze into the heart of the flame and envision the fires of creative action moving in its light. Gaze into the heart of the flame and envision the fires that heal and cauterize even the deepest of wounds. Gaze into the heart of the flame and envision the fires of purification that reveal the greater truths.

When you feel the fullness of these energies present within this candle, turn your focus to the smaller white pillars.

The Light of Creativity

Firmly holding the first pillar in your hand, bring it up to the space of your heart. As you hold this pillar, pour the intention of opening to your Creative Fires. Envision this in whatever way is strongest for you. It may be seeing the completion of a project you have been contemplating. It may present as the burgeoning of a new idea. Make sure the image is strong and clear in its intent.

Take a deep breath of inhalation and as you exhale push the energy of this intention through the heart center, through your hands and into the body of the white pillar. Take two more deep breaths of inhalation, each exhalation pouring more and more of this energy into the pillar. Lift the pillar to your Brighid Candle and light it from the Flame of the Goddess.

As you hold the newly lit candle of Brighid’s Creativity, acknowledge the power and energy flowing through it. Gaze into the heat of its flame envisioning all that this flame of Creativity holds as potential. Open to the exchange of its energy moving into your physical form, enlivening and quickening the whole of your being and when you are ready place this Pillar of Creativity back on its holder.

The Light of Healing

Firmly holding the second pillar in your hand, bring it up to the space of your heart. As you hold this pillar, pour the intention of opening to your Healing Fires. Envision this in whatever way is strongest for you. It may be seeing yourself completing your physical tasks with energy and strength. It may be seeing yourself as whole, healthy and filled with vitality. Make sure the image is strong and clear in its intent.

Take a deep breath of inhalation and as you exhale push the energy of this intention through the heart center, through your hands and into the body of the white pillar. Take two more deep breaths of inhalation, each exhalation pouring more and more of this energy into the pillar. Lift the pillar to your Brighid Candle and light it from the Flame of the Goddess.

As you hold the newly lit candle of Brighid’s Healing, acknowledge the power and energy flowing through it. Gaze into the heat of its flame envisioning all that this flame of Healing holds as potential. Open to the exchange of its energy moving into your physical form, enlivening and quickening the whole of your being and when you are ready place this Pillar of Healing back on its holder.

The Light of Purification

Gently holding the third pillar in your hand, bring it up to the space of your heart. As you hold this pillar, pour the intention of opening to your Fires of Purification. Envision this in whatever way is strongest for you. It may be seeing the release of what holds you inert and does not serve. It may be seeing yourself through the eyes of your Higher Self and the purification of untrue beliefs you hold about yourself. Make sure the image is strong and clear in its intent.

Take a deep breath of inhalation and as you exhale push the energy of this intention through the heart center, through your hands and into the body of the white pillar. Take two more deep breaths of inhalation, each exhalation pouring more and more of this energy into the pillar. Lift the pillar to your Brighid Candle and light it from the Flame of the Goddess.

As you hold the newly lit candle of Brighid’s Purification, acknowledge the power and energy flowing through it. Gaze into the heat of its flame envisioning all that this flame of Purification holds as potential. Open to the exchange of its energy moving into your physical form, enlivening and quickening the whole of your being and when you are ready place this Pillar of Purification back on its holder.

Let your gaze move from one candle to the next and the beauty of the Triple flames of the Goddess, each strong and centered as energies that may be accessed individually or as a whole. Spend as much time as you wish, sensing the energy flowing between each and the resonance of these flames within your own being.

When you are ready, offer this intention to those seen and unseen:

Before me is the Flame of Brighid
Whole and complete in its energy

Before me are the Triple Flames
All part of me as child of the Divine

Creativity burns brightly in
All of my endeavors as the
Goddess weaves her magick
Of quickening new life

Healing flows with heat and
Strength as I stand full and
Whole in the reflection of
The Goddess’ healing light

Purification sets ablaze that
Which no longer serves and
What remains is the fertile
Space of my Divine Self

Before me is the Flame of Brighid
One shall become three and
Three seek the return to one
Whole and complete in its
Power to Transform

So Mote It Be!

Let the candles continue to burn as you thank the Goddess for her presence and her gifts. Allow the words of gratitude to flow as they will in sincerity and truth. When you have ended this thanks, make declaration of: Hail and Farewell!

Allow the candles to remain burning as you release Sacred Space in accord with your spiritual path. And, as the last action, gently pinch the flames; beginning with the three pillars to extinguish. Extinguish the Brighid candle, last.

The reason for not extinguishing the candles before Sacred Space has been released is the intent that you are bringing the magick and energy of these candles into the manifest and mundane world with you. Any of these candles may be burnt whenever you feel the need for Creativity, Healing, Purification or connection to the Goddess in all of her forms.

May the blessings of the Goddess be ever with you

Please enjoy the accompanying poem in the WitchVox poetry section:
Flames of Imbolc

She is known as Brigid Bright,
Goddess who shines against the night.

At Cille Dara, at the setting sun,
Her sacred flame is kept by one.

Nineteen times the earth turns round,
As sacred springs come forth the ground.

Twenty times the sun has burned,
And now the Goddess has returned.

Alone she tends her thrice-bright flame,
Born of her heart that bears her name.

The Dagda knows Brigid as Daughter,
Triple Blessed by fire and water.

Poets call her name to inspire.
And healers oft gain from her fire.

Wayland too would know her well
As hammer and anvil ring like a bell.

A sorrowful cry did she give meaning,
When first she brought to Eire keening.

Oh Sacred Fire against darkest night,
Burn for Brigid, for Brigid Bright!

Fire in the head…to quicken us.
Fire in the cauldron…to heal us.
Fire in the forge of the heart…to temper us.

Author: Hedgewytch

THE FEAST OF LIGHT

 

If Candlemas day be fair and bright,
Winter will have another flight.
If Candlemas day clouds and rain,
Winter is gone, and will not come again.
– E. Holden

The time has come to call and welcome the forces of light!

Candlemas or Imbolc is the mid point of the dark half of the year. We welcome the rebirth and awakening of the Earth, the earliest beginnings of Spring.

Through Pagan lore, we learn that the Sun God, who is now a young boy, is beginning to feel his growing powers through the renewing energies of the Sun, represented in the lengthening in the daylight hours. The Goddess is awakening from her slumber and rest after giving birth to the God/Child at Yule. She is represented in the Maiden aspect of the triple Goddess. The awakening of the Goddess/Earth, causes germination of seeds and development of buds on the trees, as the powers of the Sun begin to warm and
renew the earth. A celebration of fertility.

Traditionally, Imbolc is a time to prepare for the goals one wishes to accomplish in the coming months, and to clarify and redefine our personal projects which were begun at Yule. the fires of Imbolc represent our personal illumination and inspiration, a celebration of ideas yet to be born. Imbolc has also become a time for new initiations into covens, self-dedication, and renewal of our bows. It is also a time for purification of oneself.

The colors for Imbolc are lavender, white and pink. Herbs include Heliotrope, Carnation, Poppy, Basil and Violet. Stones used for this celebration may include Amethyst for peace of mind or jet for heightened intuition and inner sight.

Offerings of cakes and wine may be presented to the Lord and Lady, to seek their assistance in helping to ignite your creative fires and energy.

May the fires of Imbolc burn brightly within all of you throughout the coming year!

—Author: Titania Morgay

Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Imbolc, Plus More…

 

Oimelc – Imbolc in the Saxon – marks the first stirring of life in the earth.
The Yule season originally ended at Oimelc. But with increasing organization and
industrialization, increasing demands for labor and production, the holiday kept
shrinking, first to the two weeks ending at Twelfth Night, then to a single week
ending at New Year’s, then to a single day.

Oimelc begins a season of purification similar to that preceding Yule. It ends
at Ostara. No marriages, initiations or puberty rites should be celebrated
between Oimelc and Ostara.

The candles and torches at Oimelc signify the divine life-force awakening
dormant life to new growth.

THEMES

Growth of roots begin again. Bare branches begin to swell with leaf buds, and
growth appears at the tips of evergreen branches. The tools of agriculture are
being make ready for Spring.

Xian feasts of St. Brigid, and Celtic feast of Brigit, the maiden aspect of the
triple goddess and mother of Dagda. Her symbol is the white swan. A Roman feast
of Bacchus and Ceres. The Lupercalia, a feast of Pan. The Nephelim or Titans,
those offspring of human-divine unions said to have ruled Atlantis.

Grannus, a mysterious Celtic god whom the Romans identified with Apollo.

PURPOSE OF THE RITES

To awaken life in the Earth. Fire tires to strengthen the young Sun, to bring
the fertilizing, purifying, protective and vitalizing influence of fire to the
fields, orchards, domestic animals, and people. To drive away winter. To charm
candles for household use throughout the year.

FOLK CUSTOMS

The three functions of Oimelc – end of Yule, feast of candles or torches, and
beginning of a purificatory season – are divided by the Xian calendar among
Twelfth Night, Candlemas and Shrove Tuesday (Mardi Gras, Carnival). The customs
of all three feasts are derived from Oimelc, with at most a thin Xian gloss.

Parades of giant figures (Titans?) in rural towns in France and at Mardi Gras
and Carnival celebrations. A figure representing the Spirit of Winter or Death,
sometime made of straw, sometimes resembling a snowman, is drowned, burnt or in
once case, stuffed with fireworks and exploded. They symbol of Montreal’s Winter
Carnival is the giant figure of Bonhomme di Neige (snowman).

Groundhog Day, Chinese New Year and St. Valentine’s Day customs.

The French provinces are so rich in Oimelc customs they cannot be listed here.
Refer to “The Golden Bough”.

Wassailing the trees: at midnight, carolers carry a bucket of ale, cider or
lamb’s wool in a torchlight procession through the orchards. The leader dips a
piece of toast in the drink and sedges it in the fork of each tree, with the
traditional cheer (variations exist) of: “Hats full, holes full, barrels full,
and the little heap under the stairs!”.

Who finds the bean in the Twelfth Night cake becomes king of the feast; who
finds the pea becomes queen – never mind the gender of the finders. Rag-bag
finery and gilt-paper crowns identify the king and queen. The rulers give
ridiculous orders to the guests, who must obey their every command. They are
waited on obsequiously, and everything they do is remarked and announced
admiringly and importantly: “The King drinks!”, “The Queen sneezes!” and
everyone politely imitates the ruler’s example.

SYMBOLIC DECORATIONS

Snowdrops are picked for vases, but otherwise no special decorative effects are
indicated. Go carnival, balloons and confetti.

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES

Parades, with showers of confetti, gala balls, masks, street dancing, mumming,
winter sports, ice and snow sculpture.

The Circle and the Flame: in celebration of Imbolc

The Circle and the Flame for Imbolc
Wolf moon rises, broken promises
are healed and the feast begins:
as they say, “in the belly”,
the wintry light is pregnant
with Summer’s milk and flowers;
ewes’ udders waken light
and all the wights delight;
Tribe and Land, language and rocks,

meet in the circle of this flame:
the bones of earth, elemental nooks
of all the circle’s measure
hold the ancient tribes in bondage
to the laws of fealty;
knowledge of this old way
begins in words borne of valor:
deeds of ancient warriors dying
for the people of the Land;
remembrance of this light,
the women show their troth
sewing banners of the woolen cloth
with twisted threads of memory
to hold the thoughts of poets strong;
spider, asp, and wasp; thistle, gorse, and nettle:
all children of the goddess lands:
keepers of its mysteries;

Niall of the Nine Hostages knows this truth:
the Old Crone cast her eye upon him,
and he recognized the green spark of goddess tears;
the center holds, the Bilious, the World Tree:
golden leaves waving above
gathers the tribes into the inner circle;
so in the dead month, under the wolf moon
we celebrate in feasting,
when raven’s nest and lark’s sing,
and rain brings lambs to birth;
for then the Old Woman of the year,

Cailleach, rises with her white wand,
a bride of spring, breathing power
into the Winter King, releasing him
from his dour sleep of harsh snow,
while serpent lords scatter
to the four winds of time,
knowing their time is at an end;
then the “Exalted One”, Brigid,
golden haired, encircled by children
comes among her people
to celebrate the Feast of Imbolc!

Author
Steven Craig Hickman

Imbolc

February 1 – 2, or when the sun reaches 15 degrees of Aquarius

Imbolc, one of two sabbats associated directly with a specific deity, is a festival to celebrate the beginning of spring. Imbolc’s partner across the Wheel is Lughnassadh, the Feast of Lugh.

The modern eclectic Wiccan perception of Imbolc comes from three very different festivals. Imbolc is one of the clearly Celtic festivals, with no Saxon influence. The Celtic Imbolc is celebrated from sundown on February 1 to sundown on February 2. This agricultural festival marks the lambing and calving season in the British Isles. Candlemas, which is the Catholic festival of the purification of the Virgin and the blessing of candles, is celebrated on February 2. From these two festivals comes the modern Wiccan Imbolc feast of purification and growing light. The third important festival that has influenced Imbolc is La Feile Bhrid, or Brigid’s Feast Day and this influence is perhaps the most popular for modern Wiccans. Celebrated in Ireland and the outer isles of Britain and Scotland, this festival honors the goddess (and later saint) Brigid. Her name is spelled and pronounced in different ways depending on the location in which she was worshiped. The original translation of her name in Irish Gaelic meant “bright flame,” and from this the association of Brigid with fire arose.

Brigid is quite a multipurpose goddess, encapsulating different associations from different cultural and regional affiliations. Over time, her association with poetry and inspirations has led her to be a goddess often invoked for creative purposes. She is often assumed to be a gentle goddess, but one of her cognates, Brigantia, was the martial goddess of a warrior tribe in the British Isles, and any deity associated with smithing has a connection to warcraft (as well as hearthwork).

Brigid is one of the original triple goddesses—not the maiden-mother-crone triptych postulated by Robert Graves in the mid-twentieth century, but the triple-sister form that predates the modern conception of the age-separated Triple Goddess.

In some myths, Brigid is the maiden goddess who seizes control of winter away from the Callieach, the crone goddess of winter. In the climate of the British Isles and in Western Europe, the beginning of February does indeed bring the first real signs of spring. In the British climate, farmers plough and prepare the fields for crops. Cattle and sheep feed on the newly sprung grass, and give birth to young, which results in the production of enriched milk. The new lambs and calves are signs of new life, confirmation of the ongoing life cycle. Brigid is associated with cattle, sheep, and milk; in fact, some of the later saint depictions show her with a churn or pails of milk. For these reasons, milk forms a focal point in many Imbolc rituals.

In the modern Wiccan mythos, the infant God born at Yule is now a child, nicely fitting into the Brigid and Imbolc associations of children and hearth and home. Imbolc is one of the sabbats that revolves around fire, as both a source of warmth and a source of purification. By this point, the returning light has noticeably lengthened the days.

–Solitary Wicca For Life: Complete Guide to Mastering the Craft on Your Own
Arin Murphy-Hiscock

Imbolc

Imbolc (pronounced “IM-bulk”, “IM mol’g” or “EM-bowl/k”) is one of the Greater Wiccan Sabbats and is usually celebrated on February 2nd. In the Celtic tradition it is celebrated on February 1st or the first Full Moon in Aquarius. Other names Imbolc are known by include Imbolg, Imbolic (Celtic), Imbolgc Brigantia (Caledonii Tradition, or the Druids), Candlelaria (Mexican Craft), Disting (Teutonic Tradition – celebrated on February 14th) Candlemas (some Pagan Traditions and/or individuals prefer this name), the Feast of Candlemas and St. Bridget’s Day (Christian), Oimelc, Brigid’s Day, Lupercus (Strega), the Feast of Lights, the Feast of the Virgin, the Snowdrop Festival, or the Festival of Lights. The name “Imbolc” or “Oimelc”, which is derived from Gaelic, means “ewe’s milk” after the lactating sheep that are feeding their first born lambs of the new season at this time of year.

Hold an Imbolc Candle Ritual for Solitaries

Hundreds of years ago, when our ancestors relied upon the sun as their only source of light, the end of winter was met with much celebration. Although it is still cold in February, often the sun shines brightly above us, and the skies are often crisp and clear. As a festival of light, Imbolc came to be called Candlemas. On this evening, when the sun has set once more, call it back by lighting the seven candles of this ritual.

** Note: although this ceremony is written for one, it can easily be adapted for a small group.

First, set up your altar in a way that makes you happy, and brings to mind the themes of Imbolc. You’ll also want to have on hand the following:

Prior to beginning your ritual, take a warm, cleansing bath. While soaking, meditate on the concept of purification. Once you’re done, dress in your ritual attire, and begin the rite. You’ll need:

• Seven candles, in red and white (tealights are perfect for this)
• Something to light your candles with
• A large bowl or cauldron big enough to hold the candles
• Sand or salt to fill the bottom of the bowl/cauldron

If your tradition requires you to cast a circle, do so now.

Pour the sand or salt into the bowl or cauldron. Place the seven candles into the sand so they won’t slide around.Light the first candle. As you do so, say:

Although it is now dark, I come seeking light.
In the chill of winter, I come seeking life.

Light the second candle, saying:

I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.

Light the third candle. Say:

This light is a boundary, between positive and negative.
That which is outside, shall stay without.
That which is inside, shall stay within.

Light the fourth candle. Say:

I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.

Light the fifth candle, saying:

Like fire, light and love will always grow.
Like fire, wisdom and inspiration will always grow.

Light the sixth candle, and say:

I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.

Finally, light the last candle. As you do so, visualize the seven flames coming together as one. As the light builds, see the energy growing in a purifying glow.

Fire of the hearth, blaze of the sun,
cover me in your shining light.
I am awash in your glow, and tonight I am
made pure.

Take a few momemnts and meditate on the light of your candles. Think about this Sabbat, a time of healing and inspiration and purification. Do you have something damaged that needs to be healed? Are you feeling stagnant, for lack of inspiration? Is there some part of your life that feels toxic or tainted? Visualize the light as a warm, enveloping energy that wraps itself around you, healing your ailments, igniting the spark of creativity, and purifying that which is damanged.

When you are ready, end the ritual. You may choose to follow up with healing magic, or with a Cakes and Ale ceremony.

 

Author

 Patti Wigington, Paganism/Wicca Expert

Article published on & owned by About.com

Brighid’s Crossroads Divination

Imbolc is a time when the Wheel of the Year has reached a crossroads between light and dark. The earth is about to quicken, and yet no one knows exactly what lies ahead of us. There are twists and turns on the path to come, although where it leads is anyone’s guess.

Among her many aspects, Brighid is considered a goddess of the crossroads. She is said to be able to see where we’ve been, and where each road might take us, should we choose to follow it.

A Brighid’s Cross unites the four elements, and creates paths which travel in the four directions. Because of this, Imbolc is an ideal time for divination. Not sure where your headed this year, or what choices lie before you? Let Brighid help guide you as you weave a crossroads of your own in her honor. As you create a Brighid’s Cross as part of this divination, ask her to inspire you, and guide you towards the right path in the coming months.

For this divination, you’ll want to find a place where you can be alone and undisturbed. If it’s warm enough, try to get outside, perhaps out in the woods where two paths intersect.

Before you begin, read the instructions here on how to Make a Brighid’s Cross. Have all your supplies on hand prior to beginning your divination ritual.

Begin by closing your eyes, and thinking about where you’ve been in the past year, spiritually, emotionally, even physically. What things have you done that bring your regret? What things have brought you joy? Is there anything you wanted to do, but didn’t get a chance to?

Picture yourself wandering along a path, out of the past and into the present. Let your mind roam freely, and visualize yourself approaching a crossroads. Perhaps it’s a place in a forest, where a pair of deer trails run together. Maybe it’s in the mountains, where streams intersect. Or maybe you picture yourself out in a wide open space, with roads connected in the middle of nowhere.

Regardless, see yourself at that crossroads. You are at the center, and branching out from where you stand are many paths. Each leads in a different direction. Each path will take you to something new. Begin creating your Make a Brighid’s Cross, and as you weave the straws together, think about what may lie in each direction.

As you look out over your choices, thinking about which way to travel, Brighid herself is standing beside you. Continue weaving your cross, and watch her. She points out one of the roads.

When you’ve finished your cross, close your eyes once more, and meditate on the path which Brighid indicated for you. What lies in that direction? Is it something familiar and comforting? Something new and unknown? Focus on the cross you’ve made, and let this newly chosen path inspire you. Know that it will ultimately bring you to something good and positive and strong.

When you’ve finished, you may wish to make an offering to Brighid as a gesture of thanks for her guidance

 

Author

Patti Wigington, Paganism/Wicca Expert

Article published on & owned by About.com

Ways to Celebrate Imbolc

On Imbolc, the Sun King’s chariot ascends in the sky; the sun’s rays grow stronger and days grow longer. Witches celebrate this spoke in the Wheel of the Year as a reaffirmation of life and a time to plant “seeds” for the future. You may wish to build a fire in a magick cauldron to honor Brigid. On a piece of paper, write wishes you want to materialize during the year, then drop the paper into the cauldron. As the paper burns, the smoke rises toward the heavens carrying your requests to Brigid.

In keeping with holiday’s theme of fire, many people light candles to honor the Goddess. Candles are the most common tool in the witch’s magickal tool box, used in all sorts of spells and rituals. Engrave words that represent your wishes—love, prosperity, health, etc.–into the candle’s wax. Then light the candle and focus your attention on its flame, while you envision your wishes coming true.

Skye Alexander, The Everything Wicca and Witchcraft Book: Rituals, spells, and sacred objects for everyday magick (Everything®)

The Significance of Imbolc

Brigid is one of the fertility goddesses, and Imbolc means “in the belly.” This holiday honors all forms of creativity, of the mind as well as the body. Illustrations of Brigid sometimes show her stirring a great cauldron, the witch’s magick tool that symbolizes the womb and the receptive, fertile nature of the Divine Feminine. As goddess of inspiration, Brigid encourages everyone, regardless of gender, to stir the inner cauldron of creativity that exists within.

Although Brigid is an aspect of the Divine Feminine, her day falls under the zodiac sign Aquarius, a masculine air sign in astrology. Her blazing hearth is both the metalsmith’s forge and the homemaker’s cook fire. Thus, she represents mind and body, a blend of yin and yang energies, and the union of polarities that is necessary for creation.

Skye Alexander, The Everything Wicca and Witchcraft Book: Rituals, spells, and sacred objects for everyday magick (Everything®)

Getting to Know A Little About Imbolc and Enjoying It!

Imbolc is what’s known as a cross-quarter holiday, and it falls on February 2, midway between Yule and Ostara. If that date seems familiar to you, it is because these days it is known to most folks (the non-witchy kind, anyway) as Groundhog Day. Whatever you call it, Imbolc celebrates the first signs of spring and the end of winter’s cold and gloom. Admittedly, in some parts of the country, such as my home in upstate New York, you kind of have to take the “spring is coming” bit on faith, but it is still worth celebrating all the same.

Imbolc was originally a Celtic holiday dedicated to Brigit, the goddess of smithcraft, healing, and the arts. It is also a fire festival, so it is well suited for bonfires, lots of candles, and anything creative in nature. Try having a Pagan poetry reading, or maybe a sacred s’mores party (hey, any excuse for chocolate).

For Witches, this is a time of cleansing and purification as we ready ourselves to enter the more active part of the year. The goddess is a maiden again, and the young god-reborn at Yule-is moving from infancy into robust childhood. The earth is shaking off her wintry sleep and rousing herself in preparation for another season of growth and renewal, which makes it the perfect time for us to do the same.

If you want, try taking a ritual cleansing bath on Imbolc Eve. Put a few drops of lavender oil in the tub along with some sea salt, light a few candles, and listen to some soothing music. (Note: the candles should go near the tub, not in the tub. Just so we’re clear.) While you sit in the bath, feel the warm water washing away the stresses and negativity of the winter season, and visualize yourself rising like Venus out of the ocean (or Neptune, if you’re a guy)-powerful, energized, and ready to face the challenges of the season ahead.

Deborah Blake, Everyday Witch A to Z: An Amusing, Inspiring & Informative Guide to the Wonderful World of Witchcraft